We bet you haven’t paid much attention to jackfruit, the one fruit that is versatile, time-tested, and the perfect pick for monsoon. Jackfruit comes with a distinctly sweet flavor. Known as “kahal” in Hindi, jackfruit can be used for various Indian preparations. Every part of jackfruit is edible. It is thus a food that comes with zero wastage. It has an impressive nutrient profile and is among the few fruits containing protein. Besides, jackfruit includes Vitamins A, Vitamin C, riboflavin, potassium, copper, manganese, carbs, and fiber. Jackfruit is also rich in antioxidants. Celebrity nutritionist Rujuta Diwekar has often spoken about jackfruit on her social media posts. She recently talked about jackfruit seeds and why they can be rightly termed a “true Indian superfood”. Jackfruit health benefits: top reasons to include them in your diet
1. It is versatile
Rujuta begins the list of jackfruit health benefits with their versatility. A versatile food can be used in multiple ways. As mentioned above, the whole fruit, including the seeds, can be eaten. You can cook it in the form of a traditional Indian sabzi and have it with roti, or cook it in a curry and have it with rice. Jackfruit seeds can also be boiled or roasted. The multiple ways in which jackfruit can be used make it a versatile food.
2. Extremely nutritious
Apart from protein, jackfruits are rich in polyphenols that can help you have younger-looking skin. Jackfruit also contains zinc and other microminerals that boost fertility and hormonal health. So, if you are having difficulty getting pregnant, maybe adding jackfruit to your diet could help! Also, jackfruit is rich in fiber, riboflavin, and B Vitamins. It helps reduce and regulate high blood pressure and inflammation in the gut and control blood sugar.
3. It is cheap and readily available
Calling it “aam aadmi fruit”, Rujuta mentions another benefit of jackfruit being easy on the pocket. Plus, every part of the fruit is practical – facilitating zero wastage. She says in her post that the monsoon is an excellent time for jackfruit seeds. Since this is off-season time for leafy green vegetables, including jackfruit in your diet can ensure a “steady supply of vitamins, fiber, minerals, and amino acids. They are truly versatile,” concludes Rujuta.
Other potential health benefits of jackfruit include improving immunity, thanks to vitamins A and C. It may help in keeping viral infections at bay. Potassium, fiber, and antioxidants in jackfruit can help improve your heart health. It makes for a great meat alternative for vegetarians and vegans. Adding jackfruit to your diet can work in your favor!
